This report, produced by Localis for the County Councils Network, argues that England’s labour market challenges can no longer be addressed effectively through national policy alone. While headline employment figures appear strong, the report highlights deep structural problems, including stagnant productivity, poor job quality, weak employer investment in skills, and major regional inequalities. These pressures are intensified by three converging forces: Brexit, automation and long‑standing skills deficits, alongside an ageing population.
The report shows that labour market risks vary sharply by place. Exposure to automation, reliance on migrant labour, low skills levels and demographic change differ widely across England’s local economies, cutting across traditional divides such as North–South or urban–rural. As a result, policies based solely on sectors or national averages risk missing local vulnerabilities and opportunities. What is a threat in one area may be a necessity in another.
To respond, the report calls for the creation and empowerment of “strategic authorities” at county or city‑regional level to lead local labour market strategies. These bodies should be given greater control over skills, adult education and apprenticeship funding, enabling them to align training with local economic needs. The report also emphasises the importance of increasing labour market participation among under‑represented groups, particularly disabled people and those aged over 50.
Overall, the report’s central message is that “place matters”. A more localised, flexible and devolved approach is essential if England is to build resilient labour markets and adapt successfully to future economic change.